South Ossetia, Disputed territory in South Caucasus
South Ossetia is a self-proclaimed state with little international recognition located in the South Caucasus.
Its sovereignty was declared in 1991, following the collapse of the Soviet Union.
The majority of the population are ethnic Ossetians, speaking their own language and practicing Eastern Orthodox Christianity.
Visitors require permission from both the Georgian and South Ossetian authorities to enter.
Despite its geopolitical plight, South Ossetia has an opera house, the result of a rich local music tradition.
Inception: September 20, 1990
Capital city: Tskhinvali
Population: 53532
Source: Wikimedia